Roky Erickson, James Hall & The Futura Bold Friday, July 13, at The Kessler Theater This all-Texas bill makes for one of the best shows coming to the Kessler in the near future. Roky Erickson is a legend with a riveting story and James Hall is one of the greatest frontmen to ever grace a Dallas stage.

Gipsy KingsWednesday, May 2, at AT&T Performing Arts CenterIs it possible to dislike the Gipsy Kings?

Local H, The PhussWednesday, May 23, at DadaHow can I not love Local H? Their 1996 hit song "Bound For The Floor" taught me the word "copacetic," which I went on to never use for fear of being cited as a Local H superfan. Turns out that's not such a bad thing. After their one hit song, they went on to make five records, all of which were received warmly by critics; none of which used the word "copacetic" again. Of course, I can't prove that last part. It's not like I'm going to sit down and listen to five Local H records in a row. What do you think I am, a superfan?

The JacksonsFriday, July 13, at Verizon TheatreUnfortunately, one of the Jacksons won't be there, and I'm not talking about Tito.

Cannibal Corpse, Between The Buried and MeWednesday, July 25, at House of BluesThis show is being billed as the Summer Slaughter Tour 2012 and, judging by the bands on the bill, it's designed to obliterate one's hearing. Really, with seven bands on the bill, it's more of a festival.

Identity Festival w/ Eric Prydz, WolfgangFriday, August 10, at Gexa Energy PavilionThe recently announced Identity Festival is now entering its second year in Dallas. Like last year, the massive outdoor rave will be at Gexa Energy Pavilion. Only a handful of artists have been announced, so stay tuned for even bigger names to be added to the festival bill.

Crosby, Stills and NashTuesday, August 14, at Verizon TheatreKeeping this thing going, even without Young.

Shonen KnifeFriday, August 17, at DadaSince 1981, Japanese pop act Shonen Knife has stayed relevant as one of Japan's top pop-punk exports. Not sure how they've managed to maintain their relevance for over 30 years now. I was born in 1980 and I lost mine years ago. Good on them.

Linkin Park, Incubus, Mute MathMonday, August 27, at Gexa Energy PavilionThis bill of Aught rock has a relative bright spot with opening act Mute Math, whose notorious live show will set the bar very high for the older, more established acts topping the bill.

Marc Anthony, Chayanne, Marco Antonio SolisSunday, September 2, at American Airlines CenterWhat can I say? Somewhere in Dallas there are 20,000 or so people who will come to this concert. Amazing.